Tue Oct 14 13:08:32 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text.

**Summary:**

Telangana Food Safety officials conducted inspections across all 33 districts of the state as part of a “Spices Drive” initiative, targeting over 30 spice manufacturing and repacking units. They collected over 40 samples for analysis and found violations at two facilities including pest and rodent infestation, unhygienic premises, absence of a Food Safety Training and Certification (FoSTaC) trained supervisor, unlabelled and expired products, and lack of medical fitness records for workers. 15 kg of black pepper and 18 kg of bay leaves contaminated with rat feces were seized. Multiple improvement notices were issued, and enforcement action was initiated.

**News Article:**

**Telangana Food Safety Officials Uncover Unhygienic Conditions, Seize Contaminated Spices in State-Wide Drive**

**HYDERABAD, October 14, 2025** – Telangana’s Food Safety officials have launched a state-wide “Spices Drive” uncovering alarming conditions at several spice manufacturing and repacking units. Inspections were conducted across all 33 districts, covering over 30 facilities.

During the operation, more than 40 samples of commonly used spices, including chilli, turmeric, black pepper, coriander, and curry leaf powder, were collected for laboratory analysis. Shockingly, inspectors discovered significant violations at two facilities: M/s Srivari Spices & Foods Limited in Jalpally, Rangareddy district, and M/s Divine Spices in Hyderabad.

“We found unacceptable levels of pest and rodent infestation, unhygienic premises, and critical lapses in food safety training,” stated a Food Safety Inspector, referring to the conditions at the inspected sites. “Furthermore, there was a clear lack of adherence to labelling regulations and proper medical records for workers.”

Adding to the severity of the findings, approximately 15 kg of black pepper and 18 kg of bay leaves, contaminated with rat feces, were seized and sent for further testing. Curry leaf powder without proper labelling was also confiscated.

The Commissioner of Food Safety, speaking on X, emphasized the commitment to ensuring safe and hygienic spice production throughout Telangana. Multiple improvement notices have been issued, contaminated stocks have been seized, and enforcement action is underway.

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